đź“ť Honoring Roque Magno: A Pillar of Philippine Environmental Planning
Roque Arrieta Magno was more than a scholar—he was a visionary whose work helped shape the landscape of environmental planning in the Philippines. As the author of The History of Urban and Regional Planning in the Philippines (2017), Magno chronicled the evolution of planning practices, institutions, and policies that have guided the country’s development for decades. His earlier work, Tourism Planning and Development in the Philippines (1973), reflected a deep understanding of how environmental stewardship and economic growth could be harmonized. Through his writings, Magno provided not just historical insight but a framework for future planners to build resilient, inclusive communities.
📚 Magno’s contributions extended beyond academia. As a key figure at the University of the Philippines’ School of Urban and Regional Planning, he mentored generations of environmental planners, instilling in them a commitment to ethical governance and sustainable development. His influence is felt in countless local government units, where his principles continue to guide zoning, land use, and climate adaptation strategies. Magno’s work remains a cornerstone in the professional formation of Filipino planners, and his legacy is embedded in the very fabric of Philippine urban and regional planning.
He served as Commissioner of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB), Member of the Board of Environmental Planning for the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and as Assistant Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). He dedicated many years to the Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners (PIEP), guiding generations of planners with his wisdom and vision for better community planning. He even called me before my exam for the EPLE year 2023 and advised me to share his book with my children and with the next generation. I am very happy as he shared his wisdom with me, and even signed his book for me and wrote a short dedication.
🕊️ With deep sorrow, I mourn the passing of Sir Popoy. His death marks the loss of a guiding light in the field of environmental planning. Yet, his ideas live on—in the plans we draft, the communities we serve, and the values we uphold. May his memory inspire us to continue the work he so passionately championed, and may his family and colleagues find comfort in knowing that his legacy will endure through every blueprint for a better future. Meet you in the afterlife, sir Roque.